With all the bad that is going on in the world – recession, war, climate change – it is nice to get lost in a fantasy world where everything is pretty, pink and sparkly!
Heidi Rhodes textile pieces depict fairy tales, cupcakes and scenes inspired by Brighton. Through her work she hopes to evoke the magical times of childhood and that wonderful stage between closing your eyes and going to sleep – peaceful, playful and dreamy.
Heidi describes her technique as ‘freestyle embroidery – painting with fabric and thread’. I just love how different and original her pieces are and I really get a feel for her personality through her work.
The architecture and the people of Brighton has been a massive inspiration for Heidi. She has completed a piece entitled ‘Brighton Bathers’ – the sea made up of fabrics, netting and sequins in varying shades of blue with bathers colourfully depicted in felt. Previous work has been inspired by the Pier and the Pavillion and soon she plans to do the Bandstand. She says: ‘Brighton is a magical place for me, full of creativity and inspirational views everywhere you look’.
Her ‘cupcakes’ range is right up my street. The framed textiles comprise Cath Kidstonesque fabric, buttons, beans, sequins – all representing cake cases, icing and cherries. It makes me hungry just looking at it and I’d like to hang it above my desk for those dreamy moments when you’re thinking it’s time to put the kettle on!
Heidi graduated from Chelsea Art College in 1998 with a degree in textiles and has studied Illustration at The University of Brighton. She now works as a freelance artist and arts educator. She has worked on several projects with schools, galleries and arts centers. She is a member of Brighton based textile group – The Common Thread Collective and she specializes in working with people with disabilities.
The future sees Heidi expanding her portfolio to a range of broaches and bags.
Images of her work can be seen on her website www.heidirhodestextiles.com and she exhibits and sells her work at: Pummel Kemp Town, IO Gallery Kensington Gardens, Brighton Framing Gallery Church Road Hove and Zorian Art Gallery (under the arches near the Pier.
Heidi can be contacted on 07979960807 if you’re interested in a workshop or working in partnership.
By Helen Ruff
